All About Live Blackjack

If there is one card game that epitomises what gambling is all about, then Blackjack would be it. Popular with both novices and professionals, it is one of the few games where implementing the right strategy can actually reduce the house edge and increase your winning potential. Playing online has always been enjoyable, but now the game has been taken to new heights. Live Blackjack delivers the thrill and intensity of sitting at a real table in a brick and mortar venue, but can be enjoyed on your desktop or mobile device. It provides a premium playing experience with an authentic feel, and it doesn’t get more realistic than this!

The Game Setup

For those who are unfamiliar with the Live Blackjack setup, the system uses video streaming technology to connect you to a professional dealer in a studio. Inside the studio is a regulation standard table on which the action unfolds. Unlike the electronic version that uses random number generators to produce results, here all the results are produced using real cards on a table, in real time. There is also a chat facility that lets you talk to the dealer and the other players seated at the table, and this makes it all the more interactive.

Live casino games are designed to recreate the action and intensity of a land-based casino. The software allows you to see and hear everything that is happening in the studio. In some cases, multiple cameras are used to create a movie-like sequence where the action switches between the dealer, the table and the cards to give you the most immersive experience possible. The video stream online works in one direction, which means you can play at home or your phone will full privacy at any time.

Taking a Seat at the Table

Due to the nature of the setup, live Blackjack can generally only accommodate up to 7 players per table, although you do get tables that accept more. Most software providers also offer a full range of tables with both high and low betting limits to suit all budgets. Some providers like Evolution Gaming also offer a Bet Behind feature where you can actively bet on players already seated at the table while you wait for an open seat.

Once a seat opens up, you can get started playing as soon as the next round begins. At the start of each new round, a timer will appear displaying the amount of time left to place your initial bet. Live casino games use virtual betting software, which is seamlessly integrated into the video feed. To place a bet, you simply have to click or tap on the virtual betting chips and place them on the highlighted area in front of your avatar or username.

Once the timer has run out and everyone has placed their bet, the dealer will start the first deal. He or she will then deal 2 cards to each player around the table, and 2 cards to himself or herself.

Betting Options and Payouts

Live Blackjack offers all the same betting options as the traditional version. After the first deal, players have the option Folding, Standing, Hitting (taking and extra card), Splitting or Doubling Down. Depending on the version being played, there is also an option of taking insurance if the dealer is showing an Ace. Insurance usually pays out 2:1. In some cases, the software will have a pre-bet function where you can make your play decision as soon as the first player at the table plays. This makes each round go a lot quicker.

Once each player has played his or her hand, the dealer will flip over his or her down facing card, and determine the outcome of the game. If your hand wins you are paid out even money. A hand with Blackjack pays out 3:2, so that’s ultimately what you want to aim for.